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Why not to eat Italian on the UES

Picking up on another thread, which has run its course, I thought I would give a report on why the UES may be some of the worst, most expensive, Italian food anywhere in the country.

I was invited to Vico's tonight (92nd and Madison, the epicentre of Carnegie Hill, and home to some of the wealthiest denizens of this town). Long time Hounds will immediately stop reading, knowing how bad this place can be. But I'll give a brief report.

Salad special - Spinach and badly grated Mozzarella. Were it served at Lupa, this dish wouldn't make it past the kitchen door and the salad cook would be fired in an explosion of F words. 'Nuff said. $33 for two

Soup - Green, thick. Heavy with cheese. Yura's, on the other corner, sells infinitely better soup than this for under $5. Here, it's $14

Zuchini Fritti, a house special. Ok. $9

Special Pasta - Penne in a red sauce with a few olives. Were this served at Lupa.. no, unimaginable, and unfinished. $18.50

Sfoglia is a great addition to the neighborhood. I've been to Joanna's once and don't think it is as good as Vico. I have to say, I have always had good food at Vico (and its related restaurant, Sette Mezzo) and great service. It's not cheap, but you quickly learn how to keep the tab from going nuts .... no wine by the glass, make sure you know the prices of the specials, etc. I go, knowing that it is not Lupa, that it is around the corner, that I will be treated well, and that I will enjoy the food.